Kings seek clinical edge, call on fans ahead of match against South Melbourne this evening
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Kings FC head coach Benjamin Cahn calls for greater discipline and clinical finishing from his side as they prepare for a crucial clash against South Melbourne FC this evening at the National Stadium.
Speaking shortly after the team’s training session in Honiara yesterday, Cahn remained measured in his approach, insisting there would be no major tactical overhaul despite the high stakes of the encounter.
“We’ve reviewed the game in detail and we were good in the first half, especially in that first 20 and 30 minutes.
“We had two or three really good chances, so there’s not too much we’re going to change on a bigger scale,” Cahn said.
However, the Kings coach emphasised the need for sharper execution in key moments.
“We have to make sure that we’re a little bit more robust and a bit more disciplined and hopefully if we can create some of those early chances that we take them this time,” he said.
With the race for a top-four finish tightening, pressure is mounting on the Kings, but Cahn revealed that his squad is keeping its focus grounded.
“It’s not something that we talk about. It’s one game at a time,”
“We keep trying to build our playing style and the process. Obviously, we’re aware of the league table and the pressure to stay in the top four, but despite what happens in the next game, we’ve still got three games in Fiji to try and make a big push,” he said.
Cahn also acknowledges the challenge posed by their familiar rivals, who proved difficult to break down in their previous meeting.
“They pressed us man-for-man very aggressively in the last game and they had a lot of success with it.
“They stopped us having the control of the game that we wanted,” he said.
According to Cahn, South Melbourne’s physical presence and set-piece strength remain key threats.
“They’re very direct and very strong from set-pieces. They put the ball in behind a lot, so they maintain a lot of pressure in that way.
“They have two players with very good long throws, so you’re constantly defending long throws and corners,” he said.
Despite the tactical battle looming, Cahn made a heartfelt appeal to local supporters, urging them to turn out in numbers once again.
“We’ve loved being here, we’ve loved being in Honiara.
“We’re all very disappointed that we couldn’t get at least a point in the last game and give them something to be excited about.
“We’re very grateful for the support in the stadium, it was an amazing experience and we hope they all come out again. We’ll do everything to fight and try and get you a win before we leave Honiara this time,” he said.
With pride, points, and momentum on the line, the Kings will be counting on both improved finishing on the pitch and unwavering support from the stands in their match this evening.
Photo: Supplied
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